FLOOD victims living on Pilsworth Road were shocked to find that United Utilities are looking for planning permission to build two houses on that road.

The company has applied to build two houses on the site of a disused electricity substation.

Two garages on the site are also due to be demolished as part of the plan.

Parts of Pilsworth Road were under five feet of water when the floods hit the town last July.

The cost of the damage ran into tens of thousands of pounds and some residents were out of their homes for months while it was repaired.

Having just been told by United Utilities staff that there is no solution to the flooding the residents now feel the extra housing will only add to the problems.

Diane Hatton, one of the residents, said: "After all the flooding problems we have had this is a real slap in the face for us. I can't believe United Utilities have put in a planning application to build more houses on Pilsworth Road."

Caroline Garside, who also lives on Pilsworth Road, said: "United Utilities keep saying that the floods happened because of a freak storm. But it never rains toilet paper and that was the sort of thing that was coming into our house. Putting two houses up there isn't going to make things any better."

Councillor Colin Lambert said: "This is outrageous and a real kick in the teeth for the residents. I will be asking the planning department to see if it can ensure these houses have no effect on the drains."

A United Utilities spokesman said: "The flooding on Pilsworth Road was caused by exceptional weather, not the inadequacy of the sewers. Building two houses on this site will not increase the likelihood of this happening again.

"Disused substations can often be vandalised and become and eyesore for people living nearby. We think it would be good news for everyone if planning permission is given to build properties here."